Vaginal bleeding during and after intercourse is a common problem for which many women consult their gynecologist. This condition has nothing to do with your menstrual cycle as it usually happens after having sex even when you are not on your period. Although in many cases it may be due to the simple friction during penetration or other unimportant issues, it is essential to visit your doctor as it could also be a symptom of a more serious health problem. In the following article we outline the possible causes to answer your question on why you bleed after sex.
Postcoital bleeding in many cases is due to ordinary problems that are treatable and can be diagnosed through a simple gynaecological examination. However, we should not downplay this condition since it can also be a symptom of more serious health problems, so if you notice that you are bleeding during or after intercourse see your gynaecologist as soon as possible for an examination. Let's look at the possible causes of postcoital bleeding.
Having sex too suddenly when the vagina is not sufficiently lubricated may cause you to experience some light bleeding after intercourse. This comes from small injuries that occur in the lining of the vagina due to dryness and may also occur after childbirth. If you have problems with vaginal dryness, you should moisturize the area with a lubricant recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.
One of the most common causes of postcoital vaginal bleeding are vaginal infections. Bleeding can be a symptom of excessive presence of fungi and bacteria, leading to infections such as vaginal thrush or bacterial vaginosis. In these cases, bleeding is often accompanied by other symptoms such as itching and vulva irritation, with thick, abundant and foul-smelling discharge, pain during sex and a burning sensation when urinating.
Cervical polyps can also cause you to bleed after sex. These are fleshy formations on the entrance of the vagina and they bleed easily when they come into contact with the penis. They are usually benign, but you should still go for a thorough medical examination.
Also, bleeding after sex may be due to other problems such as the presence of endometriosis. This happens when the inner lining of the uterus grows outside of the vaginal cavity resulting in an abnormal growth containing blood vessels that can bleed during sex. Another related reason could be cervical ectropion or erosion, which is an inflammation of a specific area of the cervix.
Other more serious problems that could also cause vaginal bleeding are cervical cancer and vaginal cancer.
STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea or trichomoniasis in addition to their other symptoms, can also cause bleeding during or after intercourse. Remember it's important to use a condom during intercourse, it is the only sure method and it's 100% effective in preventing STDs.
Another issue that we should also consider when we experience bleeding after intercourse is a possible change in ovulation due to the contraction of the uterus that occurs during the female orgasm. This also explains the slight vaginal bleeding that may appear in the days before or after your period.
Once you know the possible causes of vaginal bleeding during and after sex, don't forget that even for the slightest symptoms you should see your gynaecologist for a full examination.
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